Safety Information for Parents

Tufts University is committed to creating one of the most dynamic environments for learning and research in the world. An integral component of this mission is ensuring the safety and welfare of students, faculty and staff. As crises on campuses across the nation have taught us, emergency preparedness is critical to saving lives and to maintaining a safe environment. While reported crime at Tufts remains comparatively low, it is important to remember that the safety and security of our campuses are the responsibility of the entire community.

Take a moment to visit these links to learn more about the various safety programs in place at Tufts University.

Preparedness

While much of the recent focus on campus emergency preparedness has been on active shooter situations, the more likely dangers are the ones that have always been there. The university continues to prepare for fires, severe weather, natural disasters, utility disruptions, and has ongoing efforts to plan for the continuing possibility of pandemic influenza. We also continue to promote individual preparedness, encouraging all members of the community to take the following preparedness steps:

Fire Safety

Tufts has shown leadership in fire safety, in 2003 being among the first in Massachusetts to equip every university residence building with sprinkler systems and updated fire alarm systems. Fire evacuation drills are conducted twice a year. Learn more at http://publicsafety.tufts.edu/firemarshal/.

Safety Awareness Education

Operation Awareness

All incoming students attend an orientation session titled “Operation Awareness”, during which the University Police present important information about keeping one’s self and belongings safe from crime, fires and other emergencies. Similar information is also presented to all new employees.

Emergency Response Guide

A guide detailing steps to take in an emergency is available online at http://emergency.tufts.edu/guide. Print copies are also available. Members of the Tufts community are encouraged to review the material ahead of time, and keep the guide book or web site address handy for reference in an emergency.